Kenosha police discover alligators, other animals inside home

Kenosha police said Tuesday that an animal cruelty investigation led to the discovery of five rattlesnakes, two alligators, a snapping turtle, a Gila Monster and a crocodile.

"All these different exotic animals in there, and it's crazy, shocking and amazing how we're neighbors, and nobody knew what he was doing in there," neighbor Brian Berthelsen said.

Lt. Brad Kemen said officers responded to the 1400 block of 53rd Street on Monday in response to an animal cruelty complaint.

Kemen said officers discovered a skeleton of a 3- to 4-foot alligator in a back yard aquarium as well as a large burned snake and the carcass of a fawn.

Once inside the residence, officers discovered the live animals. Several containers containing snakes were found throughout the home.

"I walk up and down the street every day for the bookmobile down the road. I couldn't imagine getting bit by a rattlesnake walking down the street with my two kids. Unbelievable," neighbor Emilie Berthelsen said.

Kemen said officials with the Racine Zoo and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources are assisting with the live animals found on the property.

"The conditions they were in left a lot to be desired, but their general health appeared to be adequate," Racine Zoo President Jay Christie said.Kemen said the investigation is ongoing.

"We'll take care of them for as long as is practical, and beyond that, it's up to the courts to decide," Christie said.

Kenosha City Ordinance:Nor shall any person, firm or corporation bring into, keep or maintain under their control, within the limits of the city, any wild animal or any animal which may endanger life or property. The word "animal" as used in this subsection is any living thing that is not human or a plant, and generally is capable of voluntary motion or sensation, and, the term "wild animal" includes, but is not limited to, all animals not indigenous to the North American continent, and having a dangerous propensity.

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